Approval sought for Coast plan

THE draft Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme is one step closer to being adopted, with the Sunshine Coast Council finalising changes and sending it to the State Government for approval.

Mayor Mark Jamieson said the new scheme would provide a consistent approach to planning for the council area.

"The plan will replace the Caloundra City Plan 2004 and the Maroochy Plan 2000 to guide council in managing land use and development in a way that creates a sustainable economy, sustainable communities and a sustaiable environment," Mr Jamieson said.

"The plan aligns with the State Planning Policy and the South East Queensland Regional Plan and has been reviewed to support council's new Regional Economic Development Strategy."

He said the council expected to adopt the new planning scheme by March 2014.

"Council held a special meeting to finalise the draft Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme," he said.

"It is now over to the Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning to consider it.

"When approved, council will adopt the plan and the community will be advised of the commencement date."

Mr Jamieson said the changes were made following the region's most extensive consultation period, held in late 2012, and a series of special council meetings throughout this year.

"Council has considered the 2880 submissions through a comprehensive review process and everyone who made a submission will receive a written response over the coming weeks advising of the outcome," he said.

"The submissions helped council to consider positive improvements to the plan."